“But we will NEVER support 180 days in jail or $1,000 fine for not wearing a mask.”

In their statement, the HPOU urged officers to use discretion when enforcing the rules, although the Houston Chronicle reports Hidalgo has recommended this too.

And Galveston County Judge Mark Henry called the requirement unconstitutional. “While we encourage that you consider these recommendations for your own safety and the safety of others around you, I will not be mandating it because I believe it is unconstitutional to do so."

Asked about the pushback, Hidalgo said: “There's always going to be a minority voice. … People are entitled to their opinions.

The organization ReOpen Virginia said in a news release: "Government mandating sick people to stay home is called quarantine. However, the government mandating healthy citizens to stay home, forcing businesses and churches to close is called tyranny.”

‘LAWNMOWER ACCIDENT’

'SEX ICON'

INNOCENT

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ROOKIE CHARGE

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Many protesters have been outspoken about the economic impacts of the shutdown, noting that Americans are losing jobs increasingly as businesses have been forced to close.

Last week alone, 5.2 million Americans filed for unemployment.

At the beginning of this month it was recommeneded by the government Americans wear face coverings while out in public - but they discouraged the use of medical or N95 masks, as those are required by healthcare workers.

HPOU President Joe Gamaldi slammed the measures as 'draconian' and 'idiotic'Credit: Twitter

Wearing face masks in public is already recommended by the governemntCredit: Reuters

Walmart requiring ALL staff to wear masks starting MONDAY and will 'encourage customers to cover their faces'